The Ensembles
Here are details of the BSYM groups:
Training Band
This group is open to all woodwind, brass and percussion players of grade 1-3 standard. Rehearsal takes place from 9.30am to 12.15pm with all members having a choir/ general musicianship session from 10.30am-11am. The group is now directed by Angharad Watkeys. Members play in at least 3 concerts per year.
Intermediate Band
This ensemble is directed by Andrew Foister. Brass, woodwind and percussion players join the wind band at grade 3 and work through to grade 5. On reaching grade 5 in this band, students may wish to audition for the Senior Wind Band. Members play in at least 3 concerts a year.
Senior Band
Directed by Rainer Dolz, this ensemble is our highest level wind band. Players are at least grade 5 standard and entry is by audition only. Auditions take place in September each year. Application forms are available from the Music Service office on 01225 395110. Senior members perform on numerous occasions throughout the year.
Intermediate Brass Band
This band is directed by Andrew Foister and is made up of brass members from the Intermediate Band. There are opportunities for members to audition for the Senior Brass Ensemble on reaching grade 5.
Brass Tacks Senior Brass Band
Directed by Sue Avison, this ensemble is a high level Brass Band. Entry is by audition only. The ensemble performs regularly in B&NES and has also gained a place at the National Festival in Birmingham for the past 2 years.
Flutes Galore
This ensemble is directed by Sophie Holden. The ensemble consists of Senior and Intermediate Band flautists who work together and in 2 smaller ensembles. There is an opportunity for all members to play piccolos, alto and bass flutes as part of the ensemble.
Incantation
Conducted by Elaine Cheshire, this clarinet ensemble is made up of Intermediate and Senior Band clarinetists. The ensemble sometimes splits into 2 ensembles and there is opportunity for members to extend their skills by playing Eb and bass clarinets.
Saxophone Ensemble
This ensemble is made up of saxophone players from the 2 upper wind bands. The ensemble caters for all types of saxophone. The ensemble is conducted by Nicole Willis.
Acoustic Guitar Ensemble
This group was formed by Bill Lynn and covers repertoire of all different styles and genres. The ensemble accepts all levels of player.
Electric Guitar Ensemble
Run by David Breeze, this is a large ensemble consisting of players of all levels. The group enjoys performing medleys of rock songs and developing improvisation skills and combines with a drum kit player for concerts.
Music Time
This is a class for students of 4-7 years of age. Its aim is to develop basic musicianship through fun games and songs. Students will develop onto pitched instruments and basic reading skills. The class is taken by Jools Payne.
Music Club
This class is for 7-11 year olds who have recently started to play and instrument. The classes develop ensemble and general musicianship skills in preparation for attending the Training Band on reaching grade 1 standard. The class is taken by Jools Payne and runs from 11.15am.
